Heya Zaynab! We're so excited to have you play some tunes at TVM this Sunday in Burleigh Heads and then also Sunday 29th in Stones Corner (yay!). We’d love to know more about your journey with music, can you tell us about how and why you chose this path?
It is becoming clearer that music- creating, sharing and facilitating it, is a predetermined path for me; a path I trust I’m meant to be on. I tried to resist it, growing up in a full-on family Steelpan band, wanting to be an actor, a journalist, a teacher, a professional/Olympic diver or volleyball player, never a musician.
The resistance was futile as it is (a) present in almost every thread of my being. It feels like a return of sorts (of Saturn, maybe...) and it feels so good for my heart and soul. It offers me therapy, self-care, love and I carry it with me wherever I go. I’m flowing with the unfolding of the journey and constantly opening up my pathway of expression.
Why did you choose TVM as a venue for your music?
An inviting website and call to musicians- a good shot in the dark, I’d say. I’m not from here so I’m relying on my resourcefulness and creativity while trying to lock in venues and performance opportunities and network with new audiences. Markets are usually a good time with the range of creative artisans, the browsing pace and people- watching, of course. The music I’ll be performing is so much about connecting and sharing with people and I see the alignment with TVM. Thanks for having me!
How do you describe your performance style?
Soul-folk musical styling with storytelling, banter, charm and... there’s always something else that comes in out of my control. I show up with my tunes and the universe assists with the rest.
When you’re not performing music, what else do you get up to?
Planning a trip or looking up cheap flights to wherever. I’m quite the daydreamer. Journaling has become a regular pass time and a great way to keep track of my dreams and really manifest them. I’ve even started binding my own journals! I’ve also been getting into reading and audiobooks lately. I think I’ve got a few (too many) books on the go.
Favourite artists?
Sooooo many! Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong definitely play a role in my approach to embodying the sweetness of music and connecting through it. Billie Holiday, Norah Jones... It's a big jar of favourites.
How do you get your creative juices flowing and what inspires you?
Starting the day, as often as possible, early, reading a Daily Om newsletter followed by intentional journaling, with some body/mind/soul warm-ups (yoga, meditation, prayer) are some of the rituals that get me on an "I've got this day" page. From there, I take from either the reading, writing or listening to my surroundings and flow with it. Creation comes not only through music but in finding my joy with the offering of the day itself.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
"Once a year go someplace you've never been before" - Dalai Lama
Travel. See and enjoy the world.
When can we next expect you to play at TVM?
15 March - Burleigh Heads
29 March Stones Corner
Super excited and grateful for the welcoming, TVM team!
